After yearslong wait, Undine George sworn in as St. Augustine Beach mayor

Sunday

Jan 7, 2018 at 12:01 AM

Sheldon Gardner

After about seven years as a St. Augustine Beach commissioner, Undine George began her first meeting as mayor on Saturday.

City Attorney Jim Wilson swore in George at City Hall close to the start of the first City Commission meeting of the year — the meeting had to be rescheduled because of New Year’s Day.

"I promise to serve you as your mayor with humility," George said after she finished her oath, "to lead by example in nurturing civility, trust and mutual respect, to oversee this governance with even-handedness, objectivity and equality in the enforcement of our laws, to welcome all my colleagues’ and citizens’ comments with an open heart and a mind open toward reflection."

Wilson also swore in Margaret England as vice mayor.

"I will continue to serve and take in the information, do my homework, vote as best I can, and be the new timekeeper," England said.

George joined the commission after being elected in November 2010. People spoke in support of her taking the mayor’s seat in past years, with George getting edged out of the seat by Commissioner Rich O’Brien the past two years — commissioners elect someone from their ranks each year to serve as mayor and vice mayor, and a mayor cannot serve for more than two consecutive terms.

About 20 people gathered at city hall on Saturday for the ceremony, including St. Augustine Mayor Nancy Shaver and members of George’s family.

George said she plans to run meetings and workshops efficiently and professionally.

"Thank you for putting your trust in me over the years," she said. "I hope to make you proud and to preserve all that we love about our beautiful city of St. Augustine Beach."

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